Prominent American TV Host Slams Cryptocurrency Mining for Environmental Impact
During a recent episode of “Real Time with Bill Maher,” well-known television host Bill Maher voiced his concerns about the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining. Maher criticized the perceived wastefulness of crypto mining, highlighting its significant energy consumption.
According to Maher, cryptocurrency mining is responsible for using 8% of total electricity, a figure that he finds alarming. He likened the energy consumption of crypto mining to that of putting 15.7 million gas-powered cars on the road, undermining the progress made in transitioning to green energy sources.
Bitcoin, in particular, has faced criticism for its energy-intensive mining process, with mining equipment consuming more electricity than some countries. Environmental activists have long been vocal about the negative impact of cryptocurrency mining on the environment.
Recently, the mining industry faced backlash when it was revealed that the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) was paying local miners to reduce their operations to alleviate pressure on the state’s power grid.
Despite arguments from Bitcoin proponents that mining can promote the use of renewable energy, the general public remains skeptical about the sustainability of cryptocurrency mining.
This is not the first time Maher has expressed his disapproval of cryptocurrency. In 2022, he made jokes about the risks associated with investing in crypto, suggesting that real tokens may be just as risky as fake ones.